The incredible free hack to keep plants watered over summer even when you're not at home

A gardening expert shared a clever hack to make sure your plants stay hydrated throughout summer.

Watering the garden

One of the main concerns for many gardeners is ensuring plants in pots don't dry out, (Image: Getty)

When planning a garden, one of the main concerns for many is ensuring plants in pots don't dry out, especially on hot days

Parched roots can lead to plant stems collapsing inward, which is detrimental to plant health. 

Thankfully, a gardening expert has shared instructions to making her DIY water drip feeder.

London To Land girl came up with a genius way of creating a system that would keep the roots hydrated and prevent them from drying out, without breaking the bank.

Dirty plastic bottles

You can use empty plastic bottles to make a drip feeder (Image: Getty)

Materials Needed

  • One soda bottle per pot or plant (washed and labels removed) with the lids
  • A drill and a small drill bit
  • A safe place to drill

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Drill the Caps: Using the drill and small drill bit, make a tiny hole in the cap of each soda bottle. Replace the lids once the holes are drilled.
  2. Prepare the Bottles: Cut the bottom off each bottle. For 500ml bottles used in small pots, remove the entire bottom. For 1.5l bottles placed near larger plants in raised beds, cut off half the bottom to slow evaporation.
  3. Plant the Bottles: Insert the bottle upside down with the cap about two inches below the soil surface near the plant you want to water.
  4. Fill with Water: Every time you water your garden, fill these bottles to ensure a slow drip directly onto the plant roots.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Regular Checks: Regularly check the bottles to ensure the water level is decreasing. If it appears to slow down or stop, the hole may be clogged with soil.
  • Maintenance: Clear any blockages by removing the cap and cleaning out the hole to restore the drip function.

This DIY drip watering system is an effective way to ensure your plants receive consistent moisture directly at their roots, even in a small garden.

Not only does it solve the issue of limited space, but it also offers an eco-friendly way to recycle soda bottles.

By implementing this simple method, you can keep your garden thriving all summer long without worrying about dried-out roots.

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